The stage is set for a titanic clash in the SA Cup final as the Airlink Pumas, fresh from a gritty 31-29 win over Sanlam Boland Kavaliers, prepare to host defending champions the Suzuki Griquas, who edged the Cheetahs 41-38 in a pulsating semi-final in Kimberley.
With both matches serving up late drama and high-stakes intensity, South African rugby fans can expect an epic showdown between two of the country’s most consistent provincial powerhouses in recent years.
The Pumas, playing at Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit, looked to be in serious trouble midway through the second half when three yellow cards in the space of four minutes saw them reduced to just 12 men. The Boland Kavaliers capitalised with a flurry of tries and surged into the lead. But the Pumas showed their championship mettle, clawing their way back into the contest through tactical kicking, committed defense, and a late penalty goal by flyhalf Danrich Visagie that ultimately sealed the win. The result keeps their unbeaten season alive and offers a chance to cap it off with a major trophy on home turf.
In contrast, Griquas were engaged in a try-fest with the Cheetahs at Tafel Lager Park. The two teams were level three times in a see-sawing second half before Griquas captain George Whitehead slotted a clutch penalty goal with ten minutes remaining. The Cheetahs threatened to steal it at the death, driving deep into Griquas territory, but the defending champions held firm in a tense final passage, producing a decisive turnover on their tryline.
The upcoming final not only pits two in-form teams against each other but also renews a spirited rivalry that has grown in stature over the last decade. The Pumas and Griquas have become standard-bearers for the “smaller unions” in South African rugby — teams that continually punch above their weight in national competitions.
Historically, encounters between the Pumas and Griquas have been fiercely contested, with both sides known for their physicality, aggressive breakdown play, and clinical execution in the red zone. The two teams share a deep mutual respect, forged through years of hard-fought Currie Cup and SA Cup battles. But with silverware on the line, there will be little room for sentiment when they meet next weekend.
What adds further intrigue is the contrasting styles the teams bring to the field. The Pumas thrive on structured play and smart game management, often leaning on the boot of players like Visagie to control territory and pressure. Their tactical discipline and set-piece strength have been major factors in their unbeaten run this season.
Griquas, meanwhile, prefer a more open, attacking approach. Their ability to strike from broken play, as seen in the five tries they scored against the Cheetahs, makes them a dangerous outfit, especially with players like Cameron Hufke and Gurshwin Wehr in electric form. Captain George Whitehead, with his composure and leadership, remains a key figure for the Kimberley side.
This final will also be a clash of mental strength. The Pumas have been nothing short of resilient this season, often digging deep to find narrow wins. Their belief and unity were on full display against Boland. Griquas, however, carry the confidence of being defending champions and the experience of winning tight matches under pressure.
As fans gear up for the final in Nelspruit, the atmosphere promises to be electric. The Pumas will have home-ground advantage, but Griquas travel well and have a track record of upsetting the odds. With both teams playing thrilling rugby and a trophy at stake, the SA Cup final could very well be one of the highlights of the domestic rugby calendar.
One thing is certain — when the Pumas and Griquas collide, sparks will fly.
